For the Savage there's always Tower Hobby and/or several other reputable internet sites. You could also check around for different hobby shops locally. The one thing about buying what the local guy sells is that they will usually have parts on hand - and which ever you get, Traxxas, HPI, nitro, electric, whatever, parts will break.

My first powered model was a nitro powered line control airplane. I was 10 and did just fine with it. I'm sure you'll do fine with either nitro or electric as long as you realize that you're getting into a hobby, not buying a WalMart toy, there's a big difference in both attitude and the vehicles.

Good Luck